A healthcare expert has released tips on how to save money on medical costs as searches for ‘free healthcare’ spike amidst the cost of living crisis in the UK.
New data from Patient Claim Line has uncovered that within the first week of May 2022, there was the highest number of Google searches for the term ‘free healthcare’ within the past year – almost DOUBLE the usual number of monthly searches (Source: Google Trends).
The data comes as the cost of living crisis in the UK is in full effect, and Brits are feeling the strain. Of course in the UK, we are lucky to have free healthcare via the NHS, but other essential services such as eye tests and dental checkups don’t always come cheap.
To help Brits who are struggling financially, Patient Claim Line has released six ways you may be able to save on the cost of healthcare.
“There are very few things that haven’t gotten more expensive in the last few months. The soaring cost of food means it’s harder to eat healthily on a budget, and even staying warm is becoming a luxury.”
“Gym memberships are one of the most obvious ways to cut back, but what about the rest of our health? Looking after ourselves should be one of our biggest priorities but with everything costing so much, how can we keep on top of our health checks and keep our heads above water?”
“Here are a few tips that might make it a little bit easier to maintain our teeth, eyes and hearing checks.”
- Hearing tests
“Boots and Specsavers both offer a free hearing test for anyone concerned about their hearing, and there’s no obligation to buy anything afterwards either. You can go to your doctor and be referred for a hearing test, but waiting times vary. Find a local branch of Boots or Specsavers and ask about booking a free hearing test to be seen as soon as possible.”
- Eye Tests
“An eye test will typically set you back around £25. You should usually have a test every couple of years if you already have sight loss. If you wear contact lenses, you can sign up to your optician’s subscription service which will often include a free eye test and free eye health checks too.”
“Many opticians have £10 eye test offers throughout the year; keep an eye on websites and money-saving forums to get the best deals. Certain people are eligible for free tests on the NHS, including full-time students and people over age 60.”
- Dental check-ups
“There isn’t really any way around paying for your dental visits unless you fall into the eligibility criteria, including being on certain benefit schemes. Pregnant women, and women who have given birth in the last twelve months, can also get free dental treatment by showing their MAT B1 card or certificate. You could also consider being a patient at a training school where, in return for students performing the procedures, you get your treatment for free.”
- Private healthcare
“Private health policies are often more expensive than paying for treatment as you go. However, you may be able to join a scheme through your employer as part of a benefits package or a salary sacrifice initiative, so make sure to check with your employer if they do anything like this.”
“Some policies will cover you for standard healthcare, like dentistry or optical treatment, and you may also be able to use it to pay for regular prescription products. Some also offer wellbeing treatments like massages which contribute to overall health.”
- Prescriptions
“If you need regular prescriptions for a long-term health condition like asthma, it may be worth getting a prescription prepayment certificate. This lets you pay for your prescriptions in advance, which could save you over £300 in a year. There are different options according to your prescription needs. Children can also get free prescriptions on some over-the-counter medicines like Calpol, Piriton or emollient creams for eczema.”
- Free health MOT
“If you’re over 40, the NHS offers free health checks. Not all surgeries do it, so be sure to check if yours does first. If not, you can find an alternative GP practice to visit, or some pharmacies also provide this service.”
“You can have a free health check every five years providing you have no pre-existing conditions or have had a stroke, as you will already be seen regularly. If you’re under 40, then you can’t access this service as you are considered young enough to be low risk.”
Patient Claim Line has released the data and tips to help Brits find cheaper ways to take care of their health during the cost of living crisis.
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